Button device for electronic device

ABSTRACT

A button device for an electronic device is provided including a frame part including a conductive material, a button part movably coupled to the frame part, an inner conductive part which is disposed in the button part to be moved with the button part and receives electrostatic energy caused by an electrostatic capacitance of the frame part, a support part coupled to the frame part to elastically support the button part, and an adhesive conductive part which is coupled to the frame part, is bonded to a touch panel unit, and comes into contact with the inner conductive part to transfer the electrostatic energy of the inner conductive part to the touch panel unit when the button part moves.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to PCT Application No.PCT/KR2021/016430, having a filing date of Nov. 11, 2021, which is basedon Korean App. No. 10-2020-0182865, having a filing date of Dec. 24,2020, the entire contents all of which are hereby incorporated byreference.

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The following relates to a button device for an electronic device, andmore specifically, to a button device for an electronic device in whicha wire connecting hole or button mounting hole does not need to beformed in a touch panel unit, rigidity degradation and cracks in thetouch panel unit are prevented, and moisture or water is prevented fromentering the touch panel unit and which is easily and quickly dissembledfor repair and replacement.

BACKGROUND

In general, a display unit is installed in an electronic device. Abutton device is fixed to the display unit. The display unit includes acircuit board, a touch panel, and a glass part, and the button device isconnected to the circuit board through wires. In the touch panel, touchdetection lines are wired to intersect in horizontal and verticaldirections. In addition, the button device is fixed to an upper side ofthe glass part by screws or latch parts. As a signal of a push buttonunit is input to the circuit board, a specific function of theelectronic device is selected.

However, in conventional electronic devices, since wire passage holes orbutton mounting holes are formed in a glass part to connect a buttondevice to a circuit board using wires, the rigidity of the glass partcan be reduced. In addition, when an impact or external force is appliedto the glass part, cracks can occur around the wire passage holes andthe button mounting holes.

In addition, when a thickness of the glass part is increased toreinforce the rigidity of the glass part, the manufacturing costs of theglass part can increase, and the touch sensitivity of the glass part canbe reduced.

In addition, when external moisture or water enters the inside of thedisplay unit through the wire passage holes or the button mounting holesof the glass part, the display unit can malfunction or be damaged.

In addition, since the button device is fixed to the glass part byscrews or latch parts, an installation structure of the button devicemay be complicated, and manufacturing costs can increase.

In addition, when the glass part or the button device is disassembled orassembled, after the screws or latch parts are removed, the entirebutton device should be separated from the glass part, and the glasspart or button device should be disassembled. Accordingly, thedisassembly and assembly time and repair cost of the glass part or thebutton device can remarkably increase.

Meanwhile, the touch panel is an input device which may be manipulatedby directly touching a corresponding point of a display screen that auser wants to input.

In such touch panels, there are a capacitive method, a resistive method,and a touch method using infrared light, sound waves, and pressure, andthe like according to the manipulation method, and in the early days,the resistive method, which mainly operates by a pressing force, wasmainly used, but in recent years, the capacitive method has been mainlyused, and many computing devices (for example, small game consoles,large game machines in casinos, laptop computers, smartphones, smartpads, and the like) using touch screens to which capacitive touch panelsare applied are being released.

By the way, when a user controls a computing device by directly touchinga touch screen (for example, when the touch screen of a game console iscontrolled by touching the touch screen using a finger), a fingercontact part of the touch screen can be contaminated, and there is aproblem that an input sensation is physically reduced because there isno feeling of pressing an actual button. In addition, there is a problemthat it is difficult to input while wearing gloves.

Accordingly, a button (in present embodiments below, may be described asa button device for an electronic device or a capacitive button) thatmay be easily detachably attached to a surface of a touch screen andallows a physical input sensation to be felt without directly touchingthe touch screen using a user's finger is required.

In addition, from a view point of a computing device, a technologycapable of interfacing capacitive buttons with the computing device isrequired to control various functions according to the purpose of use ofthe computing device when one or more buttons (that is, button devicesfor an electronic device or capacitive buttons) are attached to a touchscreen.

The related art is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 2017637(Published on Sep. 4, 2019. BUTTON APPARATUS FOR CASINO MACHINE).

SUMMARY

An aspect relates to a button device for an electronic device in which awire connecting hole or button mounting hole does not need to be formedin a touch panel unit, rigidity degradation and cracks in the touchpanel unit are prevented, and moisture or water is prevented fromentering the touch panel unit and which is easily and quickly dissembledfor repair and replacement.

One aspect of embodiments of the present invention provide button devicefor an electronic device, including a frame part including a conductivematerial, a button part movably coupled to the frame part, an innerconductive part which is disposed in the button part to be moved withthe button part and receives electrostatic energy caused by theelectrostatic capacitance of the frame part, a support part coupled tothe frame part to elastically support the button part, and an adhesiveconductive part which is coupled to the frame part, is bonded to a touchpanel unit, and comes into contact with the inner conductive part totransfer the electrostatic energy of the inner conductive part to thetouch panel unit when the button part moves.

The button part may include a button body part inserted into a framehole part of the frame part and a button flange part which is formed ona circumferential portion of the button body part to be hooked on theframe part and in which the inner conductive part is disposed.

The button part may be formed of a transparent material.

The inner conductive part may be formed in a ring shape to be attachedto the button flange part.

The adhesive conductive part may include an adhesive base part bonded tothe touch panel unit and one or more conductive members which arecoupled to the adhesive base part to be in contact with the touch panelunit and come into contact with the inner conductive part to transferthe electrostatic energy of the inner conductive part to the touch panelunit when the button part moves.

The conductive member may include a conductive rod part coupled to theadhesive base part to be in contact with the touch panel unit and aconductive protrusion formed to protrude from the conductive rod part topass through the adhesive base part and come into contact with the innerconductive part.

The adhesive base part may include a seating part formed to be recessedin the adhesive base part so that the conductive rod part is seated onthe seating part and a connecting hole part formed in the seating partso that the conductive protrusion passes through the connecting holepart.

The support part may include a support body part facing the innerconductive part and coupled to the frame part and an elastic memberinstalled on the support body unit to elastically support the buttonpart.

A plurality of exposed groove parts may be formed to be recessed in thesupport body part so that the conductive protrusion passes though one ofthe exposed groove parts.

The frame part may include a frame body part formed in an annular shapeto surround an outer side of the button part, the inner conductive part,and the support part, a frame flange part formed in an annular shapealong a circumferential portion of the frame body part, and a pluralityof sliding restriction parts formed to protrude from the frame flangepart to be hooked on and restricted by a holder part of the adhesiveconductive part.

The button device for an electronic device may further include arestriction part disposed on the adhesive conductive part to correspondto a keyhole part of the frame part and a locking part formed on thesupport part so that the locking part is hooked on and restricted by therestriction part and released from the restriction of the restrictionpart as a key is inserted into the keyhole part.

The restriction part may include a restriction step part whichcorresponds to the keyhole part and is formed to protrude from theadhesive conductive part so that the locking part is hooked on andrestricted by the restriction step part and a pair of anti-separationparts formed to protrude at two sides of the restriction step part toprevent separation of the key when the key is inserted into the keyholepart.

A tapered restriction part may be formed at one side of the restrictionstep part in a width direction so that the locking part is moved to anupper side of the restriction step part, and a restriction stepped partmay be formed at the other side of the restriction step part in thewidth direction so that the locking part is hooked on and restricted bythe restriction stepped part.

A tapered insertion part formed to be inclined upward toward therestriction step part may be formed between the pair of anti-separationparts.

A tapered movement part may be formed on each of the anti-separationparts so that the key is moved while inserted into the keyhole part.

The locking part may be disposed to avoid the key when the key isinserted into the keyhole part.

A tapered locking part may be formed at the other side of the lockingpart to be moved along the tapered restriction part, and a lockingstepped part may be formed at one side of the locking part to be hookedon and restricted by the restriction stepped part.

A deformation limiting part may be formed to protrude from the framepart to limit a range in which the support part is deformed when the keyreleases the restriction of the locking part.

A first waterproofing protrusion may be formed to protrude downward froma circumferential portion of the frame part, and a second waterproofingprotrusion may be formed to protrude downward from a circumferentialportion of the button part.

A third waterproofing protrusion may be formed to protrude upward fromthe adhesive conductive part.

According to embodiments of the present invention, as a button part ismoved downward by an external force, the electrostatic energy caused byelectrostatic capacitance is transferred to a touch panel unit through aframe part, an inner conductive part, and an adhesive conductive part.Accordingly, as a user operates a button device for an electronicdevice, a function of an electronic device can be input and selected.

In addition, according to embodiments of the present invention, since anadhesive conductive part is bonded to a touch panel unit, a wire passagehole or button mounting hole does not need to be formed in a glass part.Accordingly, the rigidity of the glass part can be prevented from beingdegraded, and the glass part can be prevented from cracking caused by animpact or external force. In addition, since a thickness of the glasspart does not need to be increased to reinforce the rigidity of theglass part, the manufacturing costs of the glass part can be reduced,and touch sensitivity can be improved as the thickness of the glass partis reduced.

In addition, according to embodiments of the present invention, sinceexternal moisture or water is prevented from entering a glass part, amalfunction of or damage to a touch panel unit or an electronic devicecan be prevented.

In addition, according to embodiments of the present invention, since aseparate screw or latch part does not need to be installed to fix abutton device to a touch panel unit, an installation structure of thebutton device is simplified, and manufacturing costs can besignificantly reduced. In addition, when a glass part or the buttondevice is disassembled or assembled, since the screw or latch part doesnot need to be removed, the disassembly time, assembly time, and repaircost of the glass part or the button device can be significantlyreduced.

In addition, according to embodiments of the present invention, since alocking part is released from the restriction of a restriction unit as akey is inserted into a keyhole part, a frame part and a support part canbe easily and quickly separated as the frame part and support part arerotated at a predetermined angle in a circumferential direction.Accordingly, when a part of a button device is damaged or malfunctioned,some parts can be easily and quickly replaced.

In addition, according to embodiments of the present invention, when arestriction lever part is pressed by a key, since the restriction of alocking part is released as the restriction lever part is rotated, aframe part and a support part can be easily and quickly separated as theframe part and support part are rotated at a predetermined angle in acircumferential direction. Accordingly, when a part of a button deviceis damaged or malfunctioned, some parts can be easily and quicklyreplaced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Some of the embodiments will be described in detail, with reference tothe following figures, wherein like designations denote like members,wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a buttondevice for an electronic device is bonded to a touch panel unitaccording to a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view illustrating the button device foran electronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the button devicefor an electronic device according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 5 is an exploded bottom perspective view illustrating the buttondevice for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating the buttondevice for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which an adhesiveconductive part and a frame part are separated in the button device foran electronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which water isdrained while a button part is not pressed in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which thebutton part is pressed in the button device for an electronic deviceaccording to the first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which water isdrained while the button part is pressed in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged view illustrating a restriction part and alocking part in the button device for an electronic device according tothe first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which the lockingpart is restricted by the restriction part in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which the rotationof the frame part is prevented as the locking part is restricted by therestriction part in the button device for an electronic device accordingto the first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which the lockingpart is released from the restriction part as a key is inserted into therestriction part in the button device for an electronic device accordingto the first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which the lockingpart is moved to a release region as the frame part is rotated while thekey is inserted into the restriction part in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which the key isremoved from the restriction part in the button device for an electronicdevice according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state before the key isinserted into the restriction part in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 19 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which the key isinserted into the restriction part in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 20 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which the lockingpart is released from the restriction part as the key is inserted intothe restriction part in the button device for an electronic deviceaccording to the first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a rear view illustrating the state in which the locking partis restricted by the restriction part in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 22 is a rear view illustrating the state in which the locking partis released from the restriction part in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a buttondevice for an electronic device is bonded to a touch panel unitaccording to a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view illustrating the button device for anelectronic device according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 25 is a bottom perspective view illustrating the button device foran electronic device according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the button devicefor an electronic device according to the second embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 27 is an exploded bottom perspective view illustrating the buttondevice for an electronic device according to the second embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which an adhesiveconductive part and a frame part are separated in the button device foran electronic device according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the button device for anelectronic device according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 30 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which water isdrained while a button part is not pressed in the button device for anelectronic device according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which thebutton part is pressed in the button device for an electronic deviceaccording to the second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 32 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which water isdrained while the button part is pressed in the button device for anelectronic device according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 33 is a rear view illustrating a restriction part and a restrictionlever part in the button device for an electronic device according tothe second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 34 is a rear view illustrating a state in which a locking part ismoved while pressing a hook part of the restriction lever part in thebutton device for an electronic device according to the secondembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 35 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which the lockingpart is restricted by the restriction lever part in the button devicefor an electronic device according to the second embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 36 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which the lockingpart is released from the restriction lever part as a key is insertedinto the restriction part in the button device for an electronic deviceaccording to the second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 37 is a rear view illustrating a state in which the locking part ismoved to a release region as the frame part is rotated while the keypresses the restriction lever part in the button device for anelectronic device according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 38 is an exemplary schematic view illustrating a configuration of acapacitive button interface device according to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 39 is a flowchart for describing a capacitive button interfacemethod according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 40 is a flowchart for describing an operation in a buttonregistration mode in FIG. 39 ; and

FIG. 41 is a flowchart for describing a method for executing acorresponding operation upon detecting an input of a capacitive button,which has completed registration, in FIG. 40 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of a button device for an electronic deviceaccording to the present invention will be described with reference tothe accompanying drawings. In the process of describing the buttondevice for an electronic device, thicknesses of lines or sizes ofcomponents illustrated in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarityand convenience of explanation. In addition, some terms described beloware defined in consideration of functions in embodiments of theinvention, and meanings may vary depending on, for example, a user oroperator's intentions or customs. Therefore, the definitions of theterms should be interpreted based on the contents throughout thisspecification.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a buttondevice for an electronic device is bonded to a touch panel unitaccording to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 isa perspective view illustrating the button device for an electronicdevice according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG.3 is a bottom perspective view illustrating the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention, and FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating thebutton device for an electronic device according to the first embodimentof the present invention. FIG. 5 is an exploded bottom perspective viewillustrating the button device for an electronic device according to thefirst embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is across-sectional perspective view illustrating the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6 , a button device 100 for an electronic deviceaccording to the first embodiment of the present invention includes aframe part 110, a button part 120, an inner conductive part 130, asupport part 140, and an adhesive conductive part 150. An electronicdevice 10 according to the first embodiment of the present inventionincludes any device such as a casino machine and an entertainmentmachine.

A touch panel unit 12 is installed on the electronic device 10. Thetouch panel unit 12 includes a circuit board (not shown), a touch filmpart 14 stacked on the circuit board, and a glass part 13 stacked on thetouch film part 14. The circuit board includes a liquid crystal display(not shown) and a control unit (not shown). In the touch film part 14,touch detection lines (not shown) are wired to intersect in vertical andhorizontal directions. The glass part 13 may be formed of a transparentglass or synthetic resin material.

The frame part 110 includes a conductive material. In this case, theframe part 110 may be entirely formed of a conductive material, or aplating layer may be formed on a surface of a synthetic resin of theframe part 110. Since the frame part 110 includes the conductivematerial, the electrostatic capacitance of the frame part 110 can beincreased. The electrostatic capacitance increases in proportion to thearea of the frame part 110 and the permittivity of the conductivematerial. The frame part 110 may be entirely formed as an annular frame,an elliptic frame, or a similar shape thereto.

The button part 120 is movably coupled to the frame part 110. The buttonpart 120 may be formed in a shape that is the same as or similar to theshape of the frame part 110. The button part 120 may be formed of asynthetic resin material.

The inner conductive part 130 is disposed in the button part 120 to movewith the button part 120 and receives electrostatic energy caused by theelectrostatic capacitance of the frame part 110. The inner conductivepart 130 is disposed under the frame part 110 so that the innerconductive part 130 is not visible from the outside. The innerconductive part 130 may be formed in a shape that is the same as orsimilar to the shape of the frame part 110. In addition, the innerconductive part 130 may be entirely formed of a conductive material, orthe inner conductive part 130 may be manufactured of a mixed material ofa synthetic resin material such as silicone and a conductive powder. Anouter surface of the inner conductive part 130 may be installed to bespaced approximately 1 to 3 mm from an inner surface of acircumferential part of the frame part 110.

The support part 140 is coupled to the frame part 110 to elasticallysupport the button part 120. The support part 140 may be formed of aflexible synthetic resin material. The support part 140 may be entirelyformed in an annular frame shape, an elliptic frame shape, or a similarshape thereto.

The adhesive conductive part 150 is coupled to the frame part 110, isbonded to the touch panel unit 12, and comes into contact with the innerconductive part 130 to transfer the electrostatic energy of the innerconductive part 130 to the touch panel unit 12 when the button part 120moves. As the adhesive conductive part 150 is bonded to the touch panelunit 12 and the button part 120 is moved downward by an external force,electrostatic energy caused by electrostatic capacitance is transferredto the touch film part 14 of the touch panel unit 12 through the framepart 110, the inner conductive part 130, and the adhesive conductivepart 150. Accordingly, as a user operates the button device 100 for anelectronic device, a function of the electronic device 10 may be inputand selected.

Since the adhesive conductive part 150 is bonded to the touch panel unit12, a wire passage hole or button mounting hole does not need to beformed in the glass part 13. Accordingly, degradation of the rigidity ofthe glass part 13 can be prevented, and the glass part 13 can beprevented from cracking caused by an impact or external force. Inaddition, since a thickness of the glass part 13 does not need to beincreased to reinforce the rigidity of the glass part 13, themanufacturing costs of the glass part 13 can be reduced, and a touchsensation can be improved as the thickness of the glass part 13 isreduced.

In addition, since external moisture and water are prevented fromentering the glass part 13, a malfunction of or damage to the touchpanel unit 12 or the electronic device 10 can be prevented.

In addition, since a separate screw or latch part does not need to beinstalled to fix the button device 100 to the touch panel unit 12, aninstallation structure of the button device 100 can be simplified andmanufacturing costs can be significantly reduced. In addition, when theglass part 13 or the button device 100 is disassembled or assembled,since a screw or latch part does not need to be released, thedisassembly and assembly time and repair cost of the glass part 13 orthe button device 100 can be significantly reduced.

The button part 120 includes a button body part 121 and a button flangepart 123. The button body part 121 is inserted into a frame hole part112 of the frame part 110. The button flange part 123 is formed on acircumferential portion of the button body part 121 to be hooked on theframe part 110, and the inner conductive part 130 is disposed on thebutton flange part 123. Since the button flange part 123 is formed in anannular shape to be hooked on the frame flange part 114, the button part120 can be prevented from being separated from the frame flange part 114even when moved upward by an elastic force of the support part 140.

The button part 120 is formed of a transparent material. The button part120 may be formed of a transparent acrylic or silicone material.Accordingly, the user can visually check an image of the touch panelunit 12 through the button part 120.

The inner conductive part 130 is formed in a ring shape to be attachedto the button flange part 123. The inner conductive part 130 isinstalled to avoid the button body part 121. In this case, a couplingrib 131 extends from the inner conductive part 130, and a couplingprotrusion 125 is formed on the button flange part 123 to restrict thecoupling rib 131. Accordingly, the inner conductive part 130 can bestably attached to the button flange part 123. However, the innerconductive part 130 may also be directly attached to a lower surface ofthe button flange part 123 using a conductive adhesive.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state inwhich water is drained while the button part is not pressed in thebutton device for an electronic device according to the first embodimentof the present invention. FIG. is a cross-sectional view illustrating astate in which the button part is pressed in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention, and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state inwhich water is drained while the button part is pressed in the buttondevice for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention.

Referring to FIGS. 8 to 11 , the adhesive conductive part 150 includesan adhesive base part 151 and one or more conductive members 155.

The adhesive base part 151 is bonded to the touch panel unit 12. Theadhesive base part 151 may be formed in an annular shape or a similarshape thereto. The adhesive base part 151 may be formed of a flexiblesynthetic resin material. The adhesive base part 151 is bonded to thetouch panel unit 12 using an adhesive member 159 such as a conductiveadhesive or conductive tape.

The conductive member 155 is coupled to the adhesive base part 151 to bein contact with the touch panel unit 12 and comes into contact with theinner conductive part 130 to transfer the electrostatic energy of theinner conductive part 130 to the touch panel unit 12 when the buttonpart 120 moves. The conductive member 155 may be formed of a mixedmaterial of a synthetic resin material and a conductive powder or of ametallic material. Since the conductive member 155 constitutes a part ofthe adhesive conductive part 150, the manufacturing costs of theadhesive conductive part 150 can be reduced compared to a componentwhich is entirely formed of a conductive material. In addition, when thenumber of installed conductive members 155 is increased, a facing areabetween the conductive members 155 and a contact area of the touchdetection lines is significantly increased in the touch panel unit 12.Accordingly, since the transfer area of electrostatic energy caused byelectrostatic capacitance is significantly increased, the electrostaticenergy can be stably transferred to the touch panel unit 12 no matterwhich side of the button part 120 is obliquely pressed.

The conductive member 155 includes a conductive rod part 156 coupled tothe adhesive base part 151 to be in contact with the touch panel unit 12and a conductive protrusion 157 formed to protrude from the conductiverod part 156 to pass through the adhesive base part 151 and come intocontact with the inner conductive part 130. The conductive rod part 156may be installed in a circumferential direction of a conductive panelpart, and the conductive protrusion 157 may be formed as a plurality ofconductive protrusions 157 in each conductive rod part 156. As theconductive protrusion 157 comes into contact with the inner conductivepart 130, electrostatic energy of the frame part 110 is transferred tothe conductive protrusion 157 through the inner conductive part 130, andthe conductive protrusion 157 transfers the electrostatic energy to thetouch panel unit 12 through the conductive rod part 156.

The adhesive base part 151 includes a seating part 152 formed to berecessed in the adhesive base part 151 so that the conductive rod part156 is seated on the seating part 152 and a connecting hole part 153formed in the seating part 152 so that the conductive protrusion 157passes through the connecting hole part 153. An upper end portion of theconductive protrusion 157 is exposed to an upper side of the adhesivebase part 151 through the connecting hole part 153.

The support part 140 includes a support body part 141 facing the innerconductive part 130 and coupled to the frame part 110 and an elasticmember 145 installed on the support body part 141 to elastically supportthe button part 120. The support body part 141 is formed in an annularshape to correspond to the button flange part 123 of the button part120. The support body part 141 is disposed to avoid the button body part121. The elastic member 145 may be formed in a cylindrical or conicalshape to be contracted in a longitudinal direction by a pressing forceof the button part 120. The elastic member 145 may be formed of asynthetic resin material.

A plurality of coupling members 144 are installed in the support bodypart 141 to pass through the support body part 141, and a plurality ofboss parts 113 are formed on an inner surface of the frame part 110 tobe coupled to the plurality of coupling members 144. Accordingly, thesupport body part 141 can support the button part 120 and the innerconductive part 130 so that the button part 120 and the inner conductivepart 130 are not separated from the frame part 110.

In the support body part 141, a plurality of exposed groove parts 143are formed to be recessed so that the conductive protrusions 157 passthrough the plurality of exposed groove parts 143. Since the conductiveprotrusions 157 pass through the exposed groove parts 143, even when thesupport body part 141 is disposed between the inner conductive part 130and the adhesive base part, the inner conductive part 130 may come intocontact with the conductive protrusion 157 as the inner conductive part130 moves downward when the button part 120 is pressed.

The frame part 110 includes a frame body part 111, a frame flange part114, and a plurality of sliding restriction parts 117.

The frame body part 111 is formed in an annular shape to surround anouter side of the button part 120, the inner conductive part 130, andthe support part 140. The frame flange part 114 is formed in an annularshape along a circumferential portion of the frame body part 111. Theframe flange part 114 extends downward from the frame body part 111. Theplurality of sliding restriction parts 117 are formed to protrude fromthe frame flange part 114 to be hooked on and restricted by holder parts154 of the adhesive conductive part 150. The sliding restriction parts117 extend inward from the frame flange part 114. Each of the holderparts 154 of the adhesive conductive part 150 may be formed in a “┌”shape in which an upper side and one side are closed. The plurality ofholder parts 154 are formed along a circumferential portion of theadhesive conductive part 150. Accordingly, when the frame part 110 isseated on an upper side of the adhesive conductive part 150 and thenrotated at a predetermined angle, the sliding restriction parts 117 arefitted into the holder parts 154 of the adhesive conductive part 150,and thus the frame part 110 can be prevented from being separated upwardfrom the touch panel unit 12.

A circumferential portion of the button flange part 123 and acircumferential portion of the support part 140 are formed to be taperedor rounded, and a circumferential portion of the adhesive base part 151is disposed further outward than the circumferential portion of thebutton flange part 123 and the circumferential portion of the supportpart 140.

A first waterproofing protrusion 118 is formed to protrude downward fromthe circumferential portion of the frame part 110, and a secondwaterproofing protrusion 127 is formed to protrude downward from acircumferential portion of the button part 120. In this case, the firstwaterproofing protrusion is formed in an annular shape or a similarshape thereto on an outer surface of the frame flange part 114 in acircumferential direction (see FIG. 5 ). In addition, the secondwaterproofing protrusion 127 is formed in an annular shape or a similarshape thereto in a circumferential direction of the button flange part123.

When the button part 120 is not pressed, since the first waterproofingprotrusion 118 is in close contact with an upper surface of the buttonflange part 123, most external moisture or water is blocked from flowinginto the button part 120 and the adhesive conductive part 150 by thefirst waterproofing protrusion 118. In addition, moisture or waterentering through the first waterproofing protrusion 118 flows along thecircumferential portion of the button flange part 123 and thecircumferential portion of the support part 140 and drains outside ofthe frame part 110.

In addition, when the button part 120 is pressed, even when externalmoisture or water flows through a gap between the frame part 110 and thebutton part 120, the external moisture or water flows along thecircumferential portion of the button flange part 123 and thecircumferential portion of the support part 140 and drains outside ofthe frame part 110. In addition, since the second waterproofingprotrusion 127 of the button flange part 123 is in close contact with anupper surface of the circumferential portion of the support part 140,external moisture or water can be blocked from flowing into the buttonpart 120 and the adhesive conductive part 150 by the secondwaterproofing protrusion 127.

In the adhesive conductive part 150, a third waterproofing protrusion158 is formed to protrude upward (see FIG. 7 ). The third waterproofingprotrusion 158 is formed inside the adhesive base part 151 and formed inan annular shape in a circumferential direction. Accordingly, moistureor water penetrating or being introduced into the button part 120 may beblocked from flowing into the adhesive conductive part 150 regardless ofwhether the button part 120 is pressed.

In the support part 140, a fourth waterproofing protrusion 147 is formedto protrude upward (see FIGS. 4 and 9 ). The fourth waterproofingprotrusion 147 is formed in an annular shape on an inner side or outerside of the support part 140 in a circumferential direction.Accordingly, the fourth waterproofing protrusion 147 can block moistureor water entering or being introduced into the button part 120 fromflowing into the adhesive conductive part 150 regardless of whether thebutton part 120 is pressed.

Since the first waterproofing protrusion 118, the second waterproofingprotrusion 127, the third waterproofing protrusion 158, and the fourthwaterproofing protrusion 147 guide moisture or water to drain naturally,the moisture or water can be prevented from staying inside the buttondevice 100 for an electronic device. In addition, a malfunction of thebutton device 100 for an electronic device due to moisture or waterentering the frame part 110, the inner conductive part 130, and theadhesive conductive part 150 can be prevented.

FIG. 12 is an enlarged view illustrating a restriction part and alocking part in the button device for an electronic device according tothe first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is anenlarged view illustrating a state in which the locking part isrestricted by the restriction part in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 14 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which therotation of the frame part is prevented as the locking part isrestricted by the restriction part in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention, and FIG. 15 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in whichthe locking part is released from the restriction part as a key isinserted into the restriction part in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 16 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which thelocking part is moved to a release region as the frame part is rotatedwhile the key is inserted into the restriction part in the button devicefor an electronic device according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention, and FIG. 17 is an enlarged view illustrating a statein which the key is removed from the restriction part in the buttondevice for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view illustrating astate before the key is inserted into the restriction part in the buttondevice for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention, and FIG. 19 is an enlarged view illustrating a statein which the key is inserted into the restriction part in the buttondevice for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention. FIG. 20 is an enlarged view illustrating a state inwhich the locking part is released from the restriction part as the keyis inserted into the restriction part in the button device for anelectronic device according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention, FIG. 21 is a rear view illustrating the state in which thelocking part is restricted by the restriction part in the button devicefor an electronic device according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention, and FIG. 22 is a rear view illustrating the state inwhich the locking part is released from the restriction part in thebutton device for an electronic device according to the first embodimentof the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 12 to 22 , the button device 100 for an electronicdevice further includes a restriction part 160 disposed on the adhesiveconductive part 150 to correspond to a keyhole part 115 of the framepart 110 and a locking part 170 which is formed on the support part 140so that the locking part 170 is hooked on and restricted by therestriction part 160 and is released from the restriction part 160 as akey 20 is inserted into the keyhole part 115.

Since the locking part 170 of the support part 140 is hooked on andrestricted by the restriction part 160 of the adhesive conductive part150, the support part 140 and the frame part 110 can be prevented frombeing separated from the adhesive conductive part 150 while beingrotated in a circumferential direction. In addition, as the key 20 isinserted into the keyhole part 115, since the locking part 170 isreleased from the restriction part 160, the frame part 110 and thesupport part 140 are rotated at a predetermined angle in thecircumferential direction, and thus separation can be easily and rapidlyperformed. Accordingly, when components of the button device 100 aredamaged or malfunctioned, some components can be easily and quicklyreplaced. In this case, a rotation angle of the frame part 110 and thesupport part 140 may be appropriately designed in consideration of arange in which the locking part 170 is restricted by and released fromthe restriction part 160.

A deformation limiting part 116 is formed to protrude from the framepart 110 to limit a range in which the support part 140 is deformed whenthe key 20 releases the restriction of the locking part 170.Accordingly, when the key 20 is fitted between the support part 140 andthe restriction part 160 to push the support part 140 upward, thesupport part 140 is hooked on the deformation limiting part 116, andthus an amount of deformation is limited.

The restriction part 160 include a restriction step part 161 whichcorresponds to the keyhole part 115 and is formed to protrude from theadhesive conductive part 150 so that the locking part 170 is hooked onand restricted by the restriction step part 161 and a pair ofanti-separation parts 165 formed to protrude at two sides of therestriction step part 161 to prevent separation of the key 20 when thekey 20 is inserted into the keyhole part 115. When the key 20 isinserted into the keyhole part 115, since the pair of anti-separationparts 165 guide an entry direction of the key 20, the key 20 can beprevented from being separated from an upper surface of the restrictionstep part 161. In addition, when the key 20 is inserted into the keyholepart 115, since the key 20 moves along the upper surface of therestriction step part 161, the key 20 pushes the locking part 170 upwardand releases the locking part 170 from the restriction step part 161.Accordingly, an operator can easily separate the frame part 110 and thesupport part 140 from the adhesive conductive part 150 by manipulatingthe key 20.

A tapered restriction part 162 is formed at one side of the restrictionstep part 161 in a width direction so that the locking part 170 is movedto an upper side of the restriction step part 161, and a restrictionstepped part 163 is formed at the other side of the restriction steppart 161 so that the locking part 170 is hooked on and restricted by therestriction stepped part 163. Accordingly, when the frame part 110 isrotated in one direction in a state in which the frame part 110 isseated at an upper side of the adhesive conductive part 150, the lockingpart 170 may be smoothly moved upward along the tapered restriction part162. In addition, when the locking part 170 is moved to the other sideof the restriction step part 161 in the width direction and then moveddownward, the restriction stepped part 163 restricts the locking part170 from moving in the other direction. Accordingly, even when anexternal force is applied to rotate the frame part 110 in the otherdirection, the frame part 110 is not separated from the adhesiveconductive part 150.

A tapered insertion part 164 formed to be inclined upward toward therestriction step part 161 is formed between the pair of anti-separationparts 165. Accordingly, when the key 20 is inserted into the keyholepart 115, since the key 20 is moved upward along the tapered insertionpart 164, the locking part 170 is released from the restriction steppedpart 163 as the support part 140 is pushed and moved upward by the key20.

A tapered movement part 166 is formed on the anti-separation part 165 sothat the key 20 is moved while being inserted into the keyhole part 115.Among the pair of anti-separation parts 165, the tapered movement part166 is formed on the anti-separation part 165 disposed in a direction inwhich the locking part 170 is released. Accordingly, when the frame part110 is rotated at a predetermined angle in the other direction in astate in which the key 20 is inserted into the keyhole part 115, the key20 can be smoothly moved in the tapered movement part 166 while sliding.

The locking part 170 is disposed to avoid the key 20 when the key 20 isinserted into the keyhole part 115. Accordingly, the locking part 170can be prevented from being hooked on the key 20 when the key 20 isinserted into the keyhole part 115.

A tapered locking part 171 is formed at the other side of the lockingpart 170 to move along the tapered restriction part 162, and a lockingstepped part 173 is formed at one side of the locking part 170 to behooked on and restricted by the restriction stepped part 163.Accordingly, in a state in which the locking part 170 is released fromthe restriction step part 161, the tapered locking part 171 is incontact with the tapered restriction part 162, and in a state in whichthe locking part 170 is restricted by the restriction step part 161, thelocking stepped part 173 is in contact with the restriction stepped part163.

Then, a button device for an electronic device according to a secondembodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a buttondevice for an electronic device is bonded to a touch panel unitaccording to the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 24is a perspective view illustrating the button device for an electronicdevice according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG.25 is a bottom perspective view illustrating the button device for anelectronic device according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention, and FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view illustrating thebutton device for an electronic device according to the secondembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 27 is an exploded bottomperspective view illustrating the button device for an electronic deviceaccording to the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 28is a perspective view illustrating a state in which an adhesiveconductive part and a frame part are separated in the button device foran electronic device according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention.

Referring to FIGS. 23 to 28 , a button device 200 for an electronicdevice according to the second embodiment of the present inventionincludes a frame part 210, a button part 220, an inner conductive part230, a support part 240, and an adhesive conductive part 250. Anelectronic device 10 according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention includes any device such as a casino machine and anentertainment machine.

A touch panel unit 12 is installed on the electronic device 10. Thetouch panel unit 12 includes a circuit board (not shown), a touch filmpart 14 stacked on the circuit board, and a glass part 13 stacked on thetouch film part 14. The circuit board includes a liquid crystal display(not shown) and a control unit (not shown). In the touch film part 14,touch detection lines (not shown) are wired to intersect in vertical andhorizontal directions. The glass part 13 may be formed of a transparentglass or synthetic resin material.

The frame part 210 includes a conductive material. In this case, theframe part 210 may be entirely formed of a conductive material, or aplating layer may be formed on a surface of a synthetic resin of theframe part 210. Since the frame part 210 includes the conductivematerial, the electrostatic capacitance of the frame part 210 can beincreased. The electrostatic capacitance increases in proportion to thearea of the frame part 210 and the permittivity of the conductivematerial. The frame part 210 may be entirely formed in a circular shape,an elliptic shape, or a polygonal shape.

The button part 220 is movably coupled to the frame part 210. The buttonpart 220 may be formed in a shape that is the same as or similar to theshape of the frame part 210. The button part 220 may be formed of asynthetic resin material.

The inner conductive part 230 is disposed in the button part 220 to movewith the button part 220 and receives electrostatic energy caused by theelectrostatic capacitance of the frame part 210. The inner conductivepart 230 is disposed under the frame part 210 so that the innerconductive part 230 is not visible from the outside. The innerconductive part 230 may be formed in a shape that is the same as orsimilar to the shape of the frame part 210. In addition, the innerconductive part 230 may be entirely formed of a conductive material, ormay be manufactured of a mixed material of a synthetic resin materialsuch as silicone and a conductive powder. An outer surface of the innerconductive part 230 may be installed to be spaced approximately 1 to 3mm from an inner surface of a circumferential portion of the frame part210.

The support part 240 is coupled to the frame part 210 to elasticallysupport the button part 220. The support part 240 may be formed of aflexible synthetic resin material. The support part 240 may be entirelyformed in an annular frame shape, an elliptic frame shape, or apolygonal frame shape.

The adhesive conductive part 250 is coupled to the frame part 210, isbonded to the touch panel unit 12, and comes into contact with the innerconductive part 230 to transfer the electrostatic energy of the innerconductive part 230 to the touch panel unit 12 when the button part 220moves. As the adhesive conductive part 250 is bonded to the touch panelunit 12 and the button part 220 is moved downward by an external force,electrostatic energy caused by electrostatic capacitance is transferredto the touch film part 14 of the touch panel unit 12 through the framepart 210, the inner conductive part 230, and the adhesive conductivepart 250. Accordingly, as a user operates the button device 200 for anelectronic device, a function of the electronic device 10 may be inputand selected.

Since the adhesive conductive part 250 is bonded to the touch panel unit12, a wire passage hole or button mounting hole does not need to beformed in the glass part 13. Accordingly, degradation of the rigidity ofthe glass part 13 can be prevented, and the glass part 13 can beprevented from cracking caused by an impact or external force. Inaddition, since a thickness of the glass part 13 does not need to beincreased to reinforce the rigidity of the glass part 13, themanufacturing costs of the glass part 13 can be reduced, and a touchsensation can be improved as the thickness of the glass part 13 isreduced.

In addition, since the external moisture and water are prevented fromentering the glass part 13, a malfunction of or damage to the touchpanel unit 12 or the electronic device 10 can be prevented.

In addition, since a separate screw or latch part does not need to beinstalled to fix the button device 200 to the touch panel unit 12, aninstallation structure of the button device 200 can be simplified andmanufacturing costs can be significantly reduced. In addition, when theglass part 13 or the button device 200 is disassembled or assembled,since a screw or latch part does not need to be released, thedisassembly and assembly time and repair cost of the glass part 13 orthe button device 200 can be significantly reduced.

The button part 220 includes a button body part 221 and a button flangepart 223. The button body part 221 is inserted into a frame hole part212 of the frame part 210. The button flange part 223 is formed on acircumferential portion of the button body part 221 to be hooked on theframe part 210, and the inner conductive part 230 is disposed on thebutton flange part 223. Since the button flange part 223 is formed in anannular shape to be hooked on the frame flange part 214, the button part220 can be prevented from being separated from the frame flange part 214even when moved upward by an elastic force of the support part 240.

The button part 220 is formed of a transparent material. The button part220 may be formed of a transparent acrylic or silicone material.Accordingly, the user can visually check an image of the touch panelunit 12 through the button part 220.

The inner conductive part 230 is formed in a ring shape to be attachedto the button flange part 223. The inner conductive part 230 isinstalled to avoid the button body part 221. The inner conductive part230 may be directly attached to a lower surface of the button flangepart 223 using a conductive adhesive.

The adhesive conductive part 250 includes an adhesive base part 251 andone or more conductive members 255.

The adhesive base part 251 is bonded to the touch panel unit 12. Theadhesive base part 251 may be formed in an annular shape or a similarshape thereto. The adhesive base part 251 may be formed of a flexiblesynthetic resin material. The adhesive base part 251 is bonded to thetouch panel unit 12 using an adhesive member 259 such as a conductiveadhesive or conductive tape.

The conductive member 255 is coupled to the adhesive base part 251 to bein contact with the touch panel unit 12 and comes into contact with theinner conductive part 230 to transfer the electrostatic energy of theinner conductive part 230 to the touch panel unit 12 when the buttonpart 220 moves. The conductive member 255 may be formed of a mixedmaterial of a synthetic resin material and a conductive powder or of ametallic material. Since the conductive member 255 constitutes a part ofthe adhesive conductive part 250, the manufacturing costs of theadhesive conductive part 250 can be reduced compared to a componentwhich is entirely formed of a conductive material. In addition, when thenumber of installed conductive members 255 is increased, a facing areabetween the conductive members 255 and a contact area of the touchdetection lines is significantly increased in the touch panel unit 12.Accordingly, since the transfer area of electrostatic energy caused byelectrostatic capacitance is significantly increased, the electrostaticenergy can be stably transferred to the touch panel unit 12 no matterwhich side of the button part 220 is obliquely pressed.

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the button device for anelectronic device according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention, and FIG. 30 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in whichwater is drained while a button part is not pressed in the button devicefor an electronic device according to the second embodiment of thepresent invention. FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view illustrating astate in which the button part is pressed in the button device for anelectronic device according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention, and FIG. 32 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in whichwater is drained while the button part is pressed in the button devicefor an electronic device according to the second embodiment of thepresent invention.

Referring to FIGS. 29 to 32 , the conductive member 255 includes aconductive rod part 256 coupled to the adhesive base part 251 to be incontact with the touch panel unit 12 and a conductive protrusion 257formed to protrude from the conductive rod part 256 to pass through theadhesive base part 251 and come into contact with the inner conductivepart 230. The conductive rod part 256 is installed in a circumferentialdirection of the adhesive base part 251, and the conductive protrusion257 may be formed as a plurality of conductive protrusions 257 on theconductive rod part 256. The conductive rod part 256 may be formed in anannular shape or formed of a plurality of conductive pieces. As theconductive protrusion 257 comes into contact with the inner conductivepart 230, the electrostatic energy of the frame part 210 is transferredto the conductive protrusion 257 through the inner conductive part 230,and the conductive protrusion 257 transfers the electrostatic energy tothe touch panel unit 12 through the conductive rod part 256.

The adhesive base part 251 includes a seating part 252 formed to berecessed in the adhesive base part 251 so that the conductive rod part256 is seated on the seating part 252 and a connecting hole part 253formed in the seating part 252 so that the conductive protrusion 257passes through the connecting hole part 253. An upper end portion of theconductive protrusion 257 is exposed to an upper side of the adhesivebase part 251 through the connecting hole part 253.

The support part 240 includes a support body part 241 facing the innerconductive part 230 and coupled to the frame part 210 and an elasticmember 245 installed on the support body part 241 to elastically supportthe button part 220. The support body part 241 is formed in an annularshape to correspond to the button flange part 223 of the button part220. The support body part 241 is disposed to avoid the button body part221. The elastic member 245 may be formed in a cylindrical or conicalshape to be contracted in a longitudinal direction by a pressing forceof the button part 220. The elastic member 245 may be formed of asynthetic resin material.

A plurality of coupling members 244 are installed in the support bodypart 241 to pass through the support body part 241, and a plurality ofboss parts 213 are formed on an inner surface of the frame part 210 tobe coupled to the plurality of coupling members 244. Accordingly, thesupport body part 241 can support the button part 220 and the innerconductive part 230 so that the button part 220 and the inner conductivepart 230 are not separated from the frame part 210.

In the support body part 241, a plurality of exposed groove parts 243are formed to be recessed so that the conductive protrusions 257 passthrough the plurality of exposed groove parts 243. Since the conductiveprotrusions 257 pass through the exposed groove parts 243, even when thesupport body part 241 is disposed between the inner conductive part 230and the adhesive base part 251, the inner conductive part 230 may comeinto contact with the conductive protrusion 257 as the inner conductivepart 230 moves downward when the button part 220 is pressed.

The frame part 210 includes a frame body part 211, a frame flange part214, and a plurality of sliding restriction parts 217.

The frame body part 211 is formed in an annular shape to surround anouter side of the button part 220, the inner conductive part 230, andthe support part 240. The frame flange part 214 is formed in an annularshape along a circumferential portion of the frame body part 211. Theframe flange part 214 extends downward from the frame body part 211. Theplurality of sliding restriction parts 217 are formed to protrude fromthe frame flange part 214 to be hooked on and restricted by holder parts254 of the adhesive conductive part 250. The sliding restriction parts217 extend inward from the frame flange part 214. Each of the holderparts 254 of the adhesive conductive part 250 may be formed in a “r”shape in which an upper side and one side are closed. The plurality ofholder parts 254 are formed along a circumferential portion of theadhesive conductive part 250. Accordingly, when the frame part 210 isseated on an upper side of the adhesive conductive part 250 and thenrotated at a predetermined angle, the sliding restriction parts 217 arefitted into the holder parts 254 of the adhesive conductive part 250,and thus the frame part 210 can be prevented from being separated upwardfrom the touch panel unit 12.

A circumferential portion of the button flange part 223 and acircumferential portion of the support part 240 are formed to be taperedor rounded, and a circumferential portion of the adhesive base part 251is disposed further outward than the circumferential portion of thebutton flange part 223 and the circumferential portion of the supportpart 240.

A first waterproofing protrusion 218 is formed to protrude downward fromthe circumferential portion of the frame part 210, and a secondwaterproofing protrusion 227 is formed to protrude downward from thecircumferential portion of the button part 220. In this case, the firstwaterproofing protrusion 218 is formed in an annular shape or a similarshape thereto on an outer surface of the frame flange part 214 in acircumferential direction (see FIG. 5 ). In addition, the secondwaterproofing protrusion 227 is formed in an annular shape or a shapesimilar thereto in a circumferential direction of the button flange part223.

When the button part 220 is not pressed, since the first waterproofingprotrusion 218 is in close contact with an upper surface of the buttonflange part 223, most external moisture or water is blocked from flowinginto the button part 220 and the adhesive conductive part 250 by thefirst waterproofing protrusion 218. In addition, moisture or waterentering through the first waterproofing protrusion 218 flows along thecircumferential portion of the button flange part 223 and thecircumferential portion of the support part 140 and drains outside ofthe frame part 210.

In addition, when the button part 220 is pressed, even when externalmoisture or water flows through a gap between the frame part 210 and thebutton part 220, the external moisture or water flows along thecircumferential portion of the button flange part 223 and thecircumferential portion of the support part 240 and drains outside ofthe frame part 210. In addition, since the second waterproofingprotrusion 227 of the button flange part 223 is in close contact withthe upper surface of the circumferential part of the support part 240,external moisture or water can be blocked from flowing into the buttonpart 220 and the adhesive conductive part 250 by the secondwaterproofing protrusion 227.

In the adhesive conductive part 250, a third waterproofing protrusion258 is formed to protrude upward (see FIG. 7 ). The third waterproofingprotrusion 258 is formed inside the adhesive base part 251 and formed inan annular shape in a circumferential direction. Accordingly, moistureor water entering or being introduced into the button part 220 may beblocked from flowing into the adhesive conductive part 250 regardless ofwhether the button part 220 is pressed.

In the support part 240, a fourth waterproofing protrusion 247 is formedto protrude upward (see FIGS. 26 and 30 ). The fourth waterproofingprotrusion 247 is formed in an annular shape on an inner side or outerside of the support part 240 in a circumferential direction.Accordingly, the fourth waterproofing protrusion 247 can block moistureor water entering or being introduced into the button part 220 fromflowing into the adhesive conductive part 250 regardless of whether thebutton part 220 is pressed.

Since the first waterproofing protrusion 218, the second waterproofingprotrusion 227, the third waterproofing protrusion 258, and the fourthwaterproofing protrusion 247 guide moisture or water to drain naturally,the moisture or water can be prevented from staying inside the buttondevice 200 for an electronic device. In addition, a malfunction of thebutton device 200 for an electronic device due to moisture or waterentering the frame part 210, the inner conductive part 230, and theadhesive conductive part 250 can be prevented.

FIG. 33 is a rear view illustrating a restriction part and a restrictionlever part in the button device for an electronic device according tothe second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 34 is a rearview illustrating a state in which a locking part is moved whilepressing a hook part of the restriction lever part in the button devicefor an electronic device according to the second embodiment of thepresent invention. FIG. 35 is an enlarged view illustrating a state inwhich the locking part is restricted by the restriction lever part inthe button device for an electronic device according to the secondembodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 36 is an enlarged viewillustrating a state in which the locking part is released from therestriction lever part as a key is inserted into the restriction part inthe button device for an electronic device according to the secondembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 37 is a rear view illustratinga state in which the locking part is moved to a release region as theframe part is rotated while the key presses the restriction lever partin the button device for an electronic device according to the secondembodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 33 to 37 , the button device 200 for an electronicdevice includes a restriction lever part 260, an elastic restrictionpart 270, and a locking part 280.

The restriction lever part 260 is rotatably installed on the adhesiveconductive part 250 to correspond to a keyhole part 215 of the framepart 210. The elastic restriction part 270 is connected to therestriction lever part 260 to apply an elastic force to the restrictionlever part 260. The locking part 280 is hooked on and restricted by therestriction lever part 260 and released from the restriction lever part260 as the locking part 280 is pressed by the key 20 inserted into thekeyhole part 215.

The restriction lever part 260 includes a lever body part 261 disposedon the adhesive conductive part 250 and connected to the elasticrestriction part 270, a hinge shaft part 262 installed on the adhesiveconductive part 250 so that the lever body part 261 is rotated, and ahook part 263 formed on the lever body part 261 so that the locking part280 hooked on and restricted by the hook part 263. When the lever bodypart 261 is pressed by the key 20, the hook part 263 releases therestriction of the locking part 280 as the lever body part 261 rotates.In addition, when the lever body part 261 is not pressed by the key 20,the lever body part 261 returns to an original position.

The hook part 263 is formed at one side of the lever body part 261, andthe elastic restriction part 270 is connected to the other side of thelever body part 261. Accordingly, when the key 20 presses the lever bodypart 261 while being inserted into the keyhole part 215, the lever bodypart 261 presses the elastic restriction part 270 while rotating. Inaddition, when the key 20 does not press the lever body part 261, thelever body part 261 returns to the original position by an elastic forceof the elastic restriction part 270.

The restriction lever part 260 further includes a pressing target part266 formed on the lever body part 261 to correspond to the keyhole part115. Accordingly, when the key 20 is inserted into the keyhole part 215and then presses the pressing target part 266, the restriction leverpart 260 is rotated about the hinge shaft part 262 to release therestriction of the locking part 280.

The hook part 263 includes a tapered hook part 264 formed on the leverbody part 261 so that the locking part 280 moves while sliding and ahook groove part 265 formed between the tapered hook part 264 and thehinge shaft part 262 so that the locking part 280 is hooked on andrestricted by the hook groove part 265. Accordingly, when the frame part210 is restricted by the adhesive conductive part 250 while rotating ata predetermined angle, the locking part 280 may be smoothly moved alongthe tapered hook part 264 and then introduced into the hook groove part265.

A tapered locking part 281 is formed at one side of the locking part 280to move along the tapered hook part 264. Accordingly, when the framepart 210 is restricted by the adhesive conductive part 250 whilerotating at a predetermined angle, the tapered locking part 281 may besmoothly moved along the tapered hook part 264.

A concave part 282 is formed at the other side of the locking part 280to reduce a contact area with one side of the hook groove part 265.Accordingly, when the locking part 280 is moved along the tapered hookpart 264 and then inserted into a hook groove, one side surface of thehook groove part 265 may be prevented from coming into contact with theconcave part 282 of the locking part 280. Accordingly, friction betweenthe locking part 280 and the one side surface of the hook groove part265 may be prevented.

FIG. 38 is an exemplary schematic view illustrating a configuration of acapacitive button interface device according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

As illustrated in FIG. 38 , a capacitive button interface deviceaccording to the present embodiment may be implemented in a formincluded in a computing device and includes an input device 310, astorage unit 320, a control unit 330, and a touch screen 340, and abutton device 100 (hereinafter, may be described as a capacitive buttonin the present embodiment) is detachably attached to an upper surface ofthe touch screen 340.

The capacitive button 100 may be attached to the upper surface of thetouch screen 340 using an adhesive, a double sided tape, or anadsorption member such as adsorption rubber or an adsorption pad on arear surface (or back surface) and may also be relatively easily removedcompared to a fixed type using a screw.

A plurality of conductive members 155 (155 a to 155 c) (hereinafter, maybe described as capacitive contact points in the present embodiment) areformed on the rear surface of the capacitive button 100, and as a userpresses a button part 120, the plurality of capacitive contact points155 (155 a to 155 c) protrude at the same time and come into contactwith the upper surface of the touch screen 340. In addition, as the userreleases the pressurization from the button part 120, the plurality ofcapacitive contact points 155 (155 a to 155 c) are detached from theupper surface of the touch screen 340 at the same time.

In this case, the button part 120 is formed of a transparent material,and thus the user can check information displayed on the touch screen340.

In this case, each of a shape of an exterior of the capacitive button100 and a shape of an exterior of the button part 120 is exemplarilyillustrated as a circular shape in the present embodiment but may beimplemented as any shape such as a triangular shape, a quadrangularshape, a pentagonal shape, or the like regardless of a form. Inaddition, each of the shapes of the plurality of capacitive contactpoints 155 (155 a to 155 c) formed on the rear surface of the capacitivebutton 100 may be formed in any shape regardless of any one form, anddistances between the capacitive contact points 155 (155 a to 155 c) andthe number of capacitive contact points 155 (155 a to 155 c) may bevariously implemented. For example, even when a shape of an exterior ofthe capacitive button 100 is formed in the circular shape as in thepresent embodiment, the overall size of the capacitive button 100 andthe shape and the number of capacitive contact points 155 (155 a to 155c) formed on the rear surface of the capacitive button 100 may beimplemented differently.

However, the number of the plurality of capacitive contact points 155(155 a to 155 c) may be at least three, and although the reason for thiswill be described in detail below, when the control unit 330 drawsvirtual straight lines connecting centers of the plurality of capacitivecontact points 155 (155 a to 155 c) to form a virtual polygonal shape, avirtual triangle having at least three sides should be formed.

The input device 310 is an input means which is basically provided inaddition to the capacitive button 100, and for example, the input device310 includes a keyboard (including a software keyboard displayed on atouch screen), a fixed button (for example, a power button, a callbutton, or the like), a mouse (including a touch panel through whichtouch & drag functions are performed), and the like.

Through the input device 310, the user may input a command forcontrolling an operation (or a function, for example, a game operationin the case of a game device) of the control unit 330.

The storage unit 320 stores a control program and setting informationnecessary for the operation of the control unit 330.

For example, the storage unit 320 may store information of a pluralityof capacitive buttons 100 and may store a program for detecting andstoring (or registering) information of the capacitive buttons 100.

The control unit 330 may process a command input through the inputdevice 310 and, in this case, a control program corresponding to theinput command and setting information is output from the storage unit320 to process the input command.

For example, the control unit 330 may detect information of thecapacitive button 100 attached to the upper surface of the touch screen340 to store (or register) the information in the storage unit 320 andmay detect an input of the capacitive button 100, which has completedregistration, and execute an operation (for example, an offensive actionor defensive action designated on a button in a game console)corresponding to the capacitive button 100.

When the control unit 330 processes a command (or executes a controlprogram), the touch screen 340 outputs image or text information,detects a user's direct touch input and a touch input of the capacitivebutton 100, and transmits the touch inputs to the control unit 330.

Meanwhile, the plurality of capacitive buttons 100 may be attached tothe touch screen 340, and different commands may be set to the pluralityof capacitive buttons 100.

In this case, in order to set different commands to the plurality ofcapacitive buttons 100, a process of preregistering the capacitivebutton 100 is required.

In other words, when positions (at which the capacitive buttons 100 areattached, for example, a missile launch button, a direction adjustingbutton, and the like in a game console) at which the computing devicereceives touch inputs from the user according to programs, arepredetermined, since the plurality of capacitive buttons 100 may besimply attached to the predetermined positions, a process forregistering the capacitive buttons 100 is not additionally required.

However, when a position for receiving a touch input from the user isnot predesignated and a position for receiving a touch input and acommand for executing the touch input may be set by the user'sselection, after the capacitive button 100 is attached to a desiredposition by the user, a process of registering the position at which thebutton is attached and the command to be executed when the button ispushed should be performed.

Accordingly, a capacitive button interface device and method accordingto the present embodiment, is a method that, when the user wants toattach at least one or more capacitive buttons 100 to the touch screen340 of the computing device and use the at least one or more capacitivebuttons 100 as illustrated in FIG. 38 , the user attaches the at leastone or more capacitive buttons 100 to the touch screen 340 of thecomputing device at desired positions and then sets (or registers)commands to be executed when inputs are input through the capacitivebuttons 100.

Hereinafter, a capacitive button interface method of the control unit330 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 39 to 41 .

FIG. 39 is a flowchart for describing the capacitive button interfacemethod according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 39 , the control unit 330 checks whether a buttonattachment position is predesignated (S101).

For example, whether a position for receiving a touch input from theuser (that is, a position at which the capacitive button 100, forexample, a missile launch button, a direction adjusting button, or thelike in a game console, is attached) is predesignated may be checked bychecking whether a predesignated specific flag is set in the computingdevice (or a program to be executed in the computing device).

As a result of checking whether the button attachment position ispredesignated, when the button attachment position is not predesignated(N in S101), the control unit 330 checks whether a button registrationcommand is input during booting of the computing device (S102).

For example, during booting of the computing device, the control unit330 may check whether a command to execute a button registration programis automatically input by a designated batch program or whether adesignated specific key of the input device 310 is manually input by theuser.

Accordingly, when the button registration command is input during thebooting of the computing device (Y in S102), the control unit 330immediately switches to a button registration mode (S106), (theoperation of the button registration mode will be described withreference to FIG. 40 ).

However, when the button registration command is not input during thebooting of the computing device (N in S102), the control unit 330 checkswhether the button registration command is input after the booting ofthe computing device is completed (S103).

For example, after the booting of the computing device is completed, thecontrol unit 330 may check whether a designated specific key of theinput device 310 is input from the user or whether the buttonregistration command is input through the execution of the buttonregistration program.

Accordingly, after the booting of the computing device is completed,when the button registration command is input (Y in S103), the controlunit 330 immediately switches to the button registration mode (S106).

By the way, when the button registration command is not input even afterthe booting of the computing device is completed (N in S103), thecontrol unit 330 checks whether the button registration command is inputwhen a specific program (for example, a game program) is executed (forexample, before/after an execution of the game program) in the computingdevice (S104).

Accordingly, when the specific program (for example, the game program)is executed (for example, before/after the execution of the gameprogram) and the button registration command is input (Y in S104), thecontrol unit 330 immediately switches to the button registration mode(S106).

However, when the button registration command is not input in any of theabove situations (S102, S103, and S104, and N in S104), the user doesnot register the button even though the button attachment position isnot specified (S105, for example, there is no capacitive button 100 tobe registered by the user).

FIG. 40 is a flowchart for describing an operation of the buttonregistration mode in FIG. 39 .

Referring to FIG. 40 , when the control unit 330 switches the computingdevice to the button registration mode (Y in S201), the control unit 330outputs a predetermined guidance message (for example, a message guidinga user to attach the capacitive button 100 to a desired position on thetouch screen 340 and press the capacitive button 100 for a designatedtime) and counts the time that the user presses the capacitive button100 according to the guidance message (S202).

In this case, the control unit 330 may guide the user to press thecapacitive button 100 for a second designated time (for example, tenseconds) through the guidance message, and, when the first designatedtime (for example, five seconds) elapses, the control unit 330 detectsbutton input information about the capacitive button 100 which ispressed by the user (S203).

For example, the button input information includes simultaneous touchpoint (position) information and simultaneous touch number informationbased on features of the capacitive button 100 according to the presentembodiment. In this case, as already described above, the number ofsimultaneous touches should be at least three.

When the above button input information (for example, the simultaneoustouch point (position) information and the simultaneous touch numberinformation) is detected, the control unit 330 processes the buttoninput information according to a designated method (S204).

For example, the control unit 330 calculates center points of touchpoints (positions) from the button input information (for example, thesimultaneous touch point (position) information and the simultaneoustouch number information) and connects the center points of the touchpoints (positions) using virtual straight lines based on an outermostedge (or outermost angle) to generate a virtual closed polygon. Inaddition, the control unit 330 calculates the center and area of thevirtual closed polygon. For example, it is assumed that the number ofsimultaneous touches is three, the control unit 330 may connect centersof simultaneous touch points using virtual straight lines to generate avirtual triangle and calculate the center and area of the virtualtriangle.

That is, processing values of the button input information includesimultaneous touch points (positions), the number of simultaneoustouches, center points of touch points (positions), a virtual closedpolygon generated by connecting the center points of the touch pointsusing virtual straight lines, and the center and area of the virtualclosed polygon.

The button input information and the button input information processingvalues calculated by processing the button input information are storedin the storage unit 320 and become unique information through which thecorresponding capacitive button 100 is distinguished from othercapacitive buttons 100.

When the processing of the button input information is completed asdescribed above, the control unit 330 sets the button input informationprocessing values to button numbers (for example, button #1, button #2,button #3, and the like) (S205).

For example, it is assumed that the plurality of capacitive buttons 100are registered, each of the button numbers (for example, button #1,button #2, button #3, or the like) is set to one of capacitive buttons100.

In addition, the control unit 330 displays lists of commands (orfunctions) corresponding to the button numbers (for example, button #1,button #2, button #3, and the like) and then receives the commands (orfunctions) to correspond to each button selected by the user and storesthe commands (or functions) in the storage unit 320 to complete buttonregistration (S206).

Hereinafter, when the registration of the capacitive button 100 iscompleted as described above and then the user presses the capacitivebutton 100, a method, in which the control unit 330 detects thepressurization and operates, will be described.

FIG. 41 is a flowchart for describing a method for executing acorresponding operation upon detecting an input of a capacitive button100, which has completed registration, in FIG. 40 .

Referring to FIG. 41 , when the control unit 330 detects a button input(Y in S301), that is, when the control unit 330 detects pressurizationof the preregistered capacitive button 100, the control unit 330 detectsbutton input information for the capacitive button 100 (for example,simultaneous touch point (position) information and simultaneous touchnumber information) (S302).

When the button input information (for example, the simultaneous touchpoint (position) information and the simultaneous touch numberinformation) is detected, the control unit 330 processes the buttoninput information according to a designated method and calculates buttoninput information processing values (S303).

For example, in order to calculate the button input informationprocessing values, the control unit 330 calculates center points oftouch points (positions) from the button input information (for example,the simultaneous touch point (position) information and the simultaneoustouch number information) and connects the center points of the touchpoints using virtual straight lines based on an outermost edge (oroutermost angle) to generate a virtual closed polygon. In addition, thecontrol unit 330 calculates the center and area of the virtual closedpolygon. For example, it is assumed that the number of simultaneoustouches is three, the control unit 330 may connect centers ofsimultaneous touch points using virtual straight lines to generate avirtual triangle and calculate the center and area of the virtualtriangle.

That is, the button input information processing values includesimultaneous touch points (positions), the number of simultaneoustouches, center points of the touch points (positions), a virtual closedpolygon generated by connecting the center points of the touch pointsusing virtual straight lines, and the center and area of the virtualclosed polygon.

In addition, the control unit 330 searches for button numberscorresponding to the calculated button input information processingvalues from the storage unit 320 (that is, determines the button numberscorresponding to the button input information processing values) (S304).

For example, the storage unit 320 stores the button input informationprocessing values for the capacitive buttons 100, the correspondingbutton numbers, and operations (or execution commands) which arepreregistered in the form of a lookup table.

Accordingly, the control unit 330 searches for the button numbercorresponding to the button input information processing value andexecutes the operation (or execution command) set in correspondence tothe button number (S305).

As described above, the present embodiment has an effect of controllingvarious functions of the computing device using a capacitive button byinterfacing a plurality of capacitive buttons, which are to bedetachably attached, with a surface of a touch screen of the computingdevice using a touch screen, such as a game console so that theplurality of capacitive buttons are attached at positions desired by auser and desired functions can be executed.

While embodiments of the present invention have been described withreference to embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, thisis merely exemplary. It will be understood by those skilled in the artthat various modifications and other equivalent example embodiments maybe made from the embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, thescope of embodiments of the present invention is defined by the appendedclaims. In addition, embodiments of the present invention described inthis specification can be implemented through, for example, a method, aprocess, an apparatus, a software program, a data stream, or a signal.Even when embodiments of the present invention are described as beingimplemented in only a single form (for example, as a method), thedescribed features may be implemented in another form (for example, asan apparatus or program). An apparatus may be implemented usingappropriate hardware, software, firmware, or the like. A method may beimplemented in an apparatus such as a processor which generally refersto a processing device such as a computer, a microprocessor, anintegrated circuit, and a programmable logic device. Examples of aprocessor also include a communication device such as a computer, a cellphone, a portable or personal digital assistant (PDA) terminal, andother devices which facilitate information communication betweenend-users.

Although the present invention has been disclosed in the form ofembodiments and variations thereon, it will be understood that numerousadditional modifications and variations could be made thereto withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention.

For the sake of clarity, it is to be understood that the use of “a” or“an” throughout this application does not exclude a plurality, and“comprising” does not exclude other steps or elements. The mention of a“unit” or a “module” does not preclude the use of more than one unit ormodule.

1. A button device for an electronic device, comprising: a frame partincluding a conductive material; a button part movably coupled to theframe part; an inner conductive part which is disposed in the buttonpart to be moved with the button part and receives electrostatic energycaused by an electrostatic capacitance of the frame part; a support partcoupled to the frame part to elastically support the button part; and anadhesive conductive part which is coupled to the frame part, is bondedto a touch panel unit, and comes into contact with the inner conductivepart to transfer the electrostatic energy of the inner conductive partto the touch panel unit when the button part moves.
 2. The button deviceof claim 1, wherein the button part includes: a button body partinserted into a frame hole portion of the frame part; and a buttonflange part which is formed on a circumferential portion of the buttonbody part to be hooked on the frame part and in which the innerconductive part is disposed.
 3. The button device of claim 2, whereinthe button part is formed of a transparent material.
 4. The buttondevice of claim 2, wherein the inner conductive part is formed in a ringshape to be attached to the button flange part.
 5. The button device ofclaim 1, wherein the adhesive conductive part includes: an adhesive basepart bonded to the touch panel unit; and one or more conductive memberswhich are coupled to the adhesive base part to be in contact with thetouch panel unit and come into contact with the inner conductive part totransfer the electrostatic energy of the inner conductive part to thetouch panel unit when the button part moves.
 6. The button device ofclaim 5, wherein the conductive member includes: a conductive rod partcoupled to the adhesive base part to be in contact with the touch panelunit; and a conductive protrusion formed to protrude from the conductiverod part to pass through the adhesive base part and come into contactwith the inner conductive part.
 7. The button device of claim 6, whereinthe adhesive base part includes: a seating part formed to be recessed inthe adhesive base part so that the conductive rod part is seated on theseating part; and a connecting hole part formed in the seating part sothat the conductive protrusion passes through the connecting hole part.8. The button device of claim 6, wherein the support part includes: asupport body part facing the inner conductive part and coupled to theframe part; and an elastic member installed on the support body unit toelastically support the button part.
 9. The button device of claim 8,wherein a plurality of exposed groove parts are formed to be recessed inthe support body unit so that the conductive protrusion passes thoughone of the exposed groove parts.
 10. The button device of claim 1,wherein the frame part includes: a frame body part formed in an annularshape to surround an outer side of the button part, the inner conductivepart, and the support part; a frame flange part formed in an annularshape along a circumferential portion of the frame body part; and aplurality of sliding restriction parts formed to protrude from the frameflange part to be hooked on and restricted by a holder part of theadhesive conductive part.
 11. The button device of claim 1, furthercomprising: a restriction part disposed on the adhesive conductive partto correspond to a keyhole part of the frame part; and a locking partformed on the support part so that the locking part is hooked on andrestricted by the restriction part and released from restriction of therestriction part as a key is inserted into the keyhole part.
 12. Thebutton device of claim 11, wherein the restriction part includes: arestriction step part which corresponds to the keyhole part and isformed to protrude from the adhesive conductive part so that the lockingpart is hooked on and restricted by the restriction step part; and apair of anti-separation parts formed to protrude at two sides of therestriction step part to prevent separation of the key when the key isinserted into the keyhole part.
 13. The button device of claim 12,wherein: a tapered restriction part is formed at one side of therestriction step part in a width direction so that the locking part ismoved to an upper side of the restriction step part; and a restrictionstepped part is formed at the other side of the restriction step part inthe width direction so that the locking part is hooked on and restrictedby the restriction stepped part.
 14. The button device of claim 12,wherein a tapered insertion part formed to be inclined upward toward therestriction step part is formed between the pair of anti-separationparts.
 15. The button device of claim 12, wherein a tapered movementpart is formed on each of the anti-separation parts so that the key ismoved while inserted into the keyhole part.
 16. The button device ofclaim 12, wherein the locking part is disposed to avoid the key when thekey is inserted into the keyhole part.
 17. The button device of claim13, wherein: a tapered locking part is formed at the other side of thelocking part to be moved along the tapered restriction part; and alocking stepped part is formed at one side of the locking part to behooked on and restricted by the restriction stepped part.
 18. The buttondevice of claim 11, wherein a deformation limiting part is formed toprotrude from the frame part to limit a range in which the support partis deformed when the key releases the restriction of the locking part.19. The button device of claim 1, wherein: a first waterproofingprotrusion is formed to protrude downward from a circumferential portionof the frame part; and a second waterproofing protrusion is formed toprotrude downward from a circumferential portion of the button part. 20.The button device of claim 19, wherein a third waterproofing protrusionis formed to protrude upward from the adhesive conductive part.